Basquiat Series #1 - Not a Mascot is the first in a series of four paintings composed in collaboration with fellow Pasco artist, Fabstraq. This series of paintings is to honor the game-changing artist Jean-Michele Basquiat, depicting a progression of him throughout his lifetime as an established artist.
Not a Mascot is special because it is a first-time collaboration with the two artists. Fabstraq used his unique and vibrant style to create the first layer. Artist Jones then had to figure out how to incorporate the portrait of Jean-Michel while still maintaining the visibility of Fabstraq's work. The result is two different styles come together to create a beautifully unexpected contrast.
Basquiat Series #2 - I Am Legend is the second in a series of four paintings composed in collaboration with fellow Pasco artist, Fabstraq. This series of paintings is to honor the game changer, artist Jean-Michele Basquiat, depicting a progression of him throughout his lifetime as an established artist.
I Am Legend is significant because it shows the awareness of each other as artists. Fabstraq approached his composition differently in this piece – making sure to keep most elements towards the outside of the canvas. While Artist Jones was able to create a more centralized figure, maintaining the "detached" feeling as the first piece in the series.
Basquiat Series #3 - Papa I Made It is the third in a series of four paintings composed in collaboration with fellow Pasco artist, Fabstraq. This series of paintings is to honor the game-changing artist Jean-Michele Basquiat, depicting a progression of him throughout his lifetime as an established artist.
Papa I Made It is the first in the series where the artists are now comfortable creating with each other. Now completely aware of the style of his counterpart, Fabstraq uses his elements a little more freely, daring Artist Jones to find a way to once again, marry the two different styles.
A side view of Jean-Michele was chosen because it is incredibly rare to find a painted image. Most images depict Jean-Michele from the front or 3/4 view. The side view, accompanied by his suit, gives Jean-Michel a very distinguished look.
Basquiat Series #4 - The Great Boxing Champion is the fourth in a series of four paintings composed in collaboration with fellow Pasco artist, Fabstraq. This series of paintings is to honor the game-changing artist Jean-Michele Basquiat, depicting a progression of him throughout his lifetime as an established artist.
The Great Boxing Champion is a symbol of growth for both artists during the collaboration. Fabstraq plays with a new color palette for his part of the composition. He is also conscious of where to place text and certain elements, knowing they could be used as tools to create something new and exciting.
Artist Jones chose the image of Jean-Michel as a boxer because he fought until his death to claim a piece of art history and emerged victorious. The "GIF" gloves are a nod to the Graphic Design background of Artist Jones, as well as an opportunity to stimulate the imagination of the viewer as to what could go there.
